H.R. 8787 aims to prevent the Secretary of Defense from entering into contracts with retailers that utilize certain types of payment processing equipment, systems, or services deemed 'covered.' This legislation is likely intended to address concerns about security, privacy, or compliance with specific standards in payment processing.
Supporters of H.R. 8787 argue that the bill enhances national security by ensuring that the Department of Defense only works with retailers that meet strict payment processing standards. Advocates believe this will protect sensitive information and prevent potential cyber threats, fostering a safer environment for military personnel and their families.
Critics of H.R. 8787 express concerns that the bill may limit the options available to the Department of Defense in selecting retail partners, potentially leading to increased costs or reduced competition. Some argue that the bill could inadvertently harm small businesses that rely on the covered payment processing systems, impacting their ability to serve military communities effectively.
The bill H.R. 8787 aims to prohibit the Secretary of Defense from contracting with retailers that use certain payment processing systems. The sponsor, Ben Cline, has significant financial backing from the health professionals industry, totaling $80 million, and from retired individuals, amounting to $25 million. However, there are no direct overlaps between these donor industries and the bill's subject matter. The lobbying activity related to this bill includes contributions from USIG Digital, which is also a donor to Cline, amounting to $30,000. While this connection exists, it does not directly relate to the core issues of the bill, indicating a low risk of conflict of interest. Voters should be aware that while there are financial connections, they do not directly influence the bill's intent or provisions.
Organizations that lobbied on issues related to this bill's policy area. 2 lobbying client(s) are also sponsor donors.
| Client | Lobbying Firm | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| USIG DIGITAL Also a Donor | SOBBA PUBLIC, LLC | $15,000 |
| USIG DIGITAL Also a Donor | SOBBA PUBLIC, LLC | $15,000 |
| THE GEO GROUP, INC. | CHECKMATE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS | $80,000 |
| COPPER.CO | SOBBA PUBLIC, LLC | $36,000 |
| AMPL-ACTION FUND (FORMERLY ADVOCATES FOR MULTI-USE OF PUBLIC LANDS) | BIGHORN PUBLIC AFFAIRS GROUP | $20,000 |
| CATHOLIC CHARITIES | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $15,000 |
| PVS CHEMICAL SOLUTIONS | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $15,000 |
| ERIE COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $15,000 |
| ARTPARK | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $10,500 |
| MHG TELCO, LLL | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $10,500 |
| ROSINA FOODS | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $9,000 |
| THE SALVATION ARMY | MASIELLO MARTUCCI HUGHES KULPA | $6,000 |
| A.C.E. CONSULTING | A.C.E. CONSULTING DBA A.C.E. CONSTRUCTION CONSULTING | undisclosed |
| A.C.E. CONSULTING | A.C.E. CONSULTING DBA A.C.E. CONSTRUCTION CONSULTING | undisclosed |
| THE GUTHRIE CLINIC | BUCHANAN INGERSOLL & ROONEY PC | undisclosed |
Source: Senate Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) filings, 2026
Top industries funding Ben Cline, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
